Dear LPG readers,

 
Summer is over again, meaning the sunshine this year has offered is practically over. Each daily weather forecast warns us that we have nothing but months of dreary days to look forward to. I know that not everyone sees things that way, but I know more than a couple who do.

It’s the way they talk about the cold (which, in general, we older people seem to feel more than any other age group of the population), the darkness (there is so much more of it at this time of year,) and if, as we have become older, we have found ourselves with less family and friends close by, that feeling of isolation can become a lot more intense too.  As it gets colder, the fear of falling will put some off of leaving home as often as the warmer weather allows, and the safety aspect of travelling around in the dark can be another reason for staying at home more.  These are just a few of the reasons that cause the winter blues.

The question is, what can we do about it?

There has to be an element of SAD (Seasonal affective disorder) in the mix somewhere. That is the subconscious effect that insufficient sunlight has on so many people’s well-being, and for some, a couple of SAD lamps shining around your house might make the difference.  We also know that exercise is a sure way to keep our bits warm and moving better, but it can often be that sinking feeling which could get us in the end.  We are constantly reminded of the importance of putting on many layers of clothing as it gets colder to keep us warm from the outside. In contrast, many warm drinks will help maintain the physical health of the inside-out aspect of temperature.  

One of the most important things to remember is your phone (be it landline or mobile) and making good use of it if it has to be a substitute for getting out and seeing your friends face to face.   It is also worth remembering that when you talk, albeit distantly, you are not only getting the benefit of making contact with the outside world, but you are also offering someone else that same benefit back.  

I am no expert in finding the ultimate cure, but I know what it is like to experience hints of the ‘winter blues’, which can leave us cold and lonely on many levels.  

If and when things do get you down, I have learned that if you have the presence of mind to realise that something is wrong, it is so much easier to start fixing it or at least get some help. Having felt a bit of a negative tinge recently, I went to the internet to see what can be done to help lift the negative spirit that looks through a window on a cold winter morning.  

The usual solutions are all there to be found, but I also discovered more indirect suggestions that might make a difference to some. 

HB, Blackheath.

HB shares some of what she has learned…

LPG reminds readers that these links contain a lot of good information, but they often include invitations to get involved with an organisation or to buy something. We remind you that the focus should be on the information rather than the invitation…

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